Blockchain Technology: Delivering Traceability Across Supply Chains
In the pursuit of genuine eco-friendliness and sustainability within the branded merchandise industry, combating greenwashing is top of our list—a deceptive practice that misrepresents environmental commitments. We’re committed to delivering our clients the best and most traceable eco-friendly products. This is something that is becoming increasingly easy thanks to blockchain technology delivering traceability across supply chains.
What is Blockchain?
Blockchain is defined by Google as “a system in which a record of transactions is maintained across several computers linked in a peer-to-peer network.” It might seem unrelated to branded merchandise at first glance. However, its impact on product sourcing and traceability is reshaping the industry. It aids in the identification of greenwashers and facilitates purchases from truly sustainable manufacturers.
Blockchain technology allows us to trace the entire journey of a product back to its origin. This level of transparency enables us to scrutinise each step and pinpoint the authenticity of eco-friendly claims.
The Role of Blockchain in Branded Products
The AWARE ™ range of merchandise is one of the first to utilise new Blockchain technologies. Blockchain technology allows us to trace the entire journey of a product back to its origin.
The AWARE™ collection uses tracer particles on the raw recycled cotton used in product manufacturing, followed by the utilisation of blockchain technology to ensure the consistency of the material entering the supply chain. By offering validation, transparency and verification to AWARE Blockchain Recycled Fabric, this hybrid technology works to eliminate greenwashing and establish more trust in the textiles industry.
Long production supply chains can be difficult to track and trace, making them vulnerable and difficult to regulate. The lack of transparency and traceability across long supply chains can lead to brands exaggerating their sustainability efforts. This leads to greenwashing and mistrust within the textile industry.
How Blockchain Works
AWARE decentralises sustainable claim validation and impact reduction claims by combining tracer and blockchain technology, adding that to sustainable fibres and yarn. The process works with several carefully selected partner spinners adding the patented AWARE™ tracer material into the original recycled feedstock.
A virtual representation of the yarn/fibre is then created as a digital token and stored on a decentralised and open-source blockchain. Brands can now use the yarn in the same way as any other raw fabric. Unlike other fabrics, the final product can be scanned at the end of production to confirm it’s made from original certified recycled materials.
An example of this would be a canvas laptop bag, showcasing Blockchain traceability. Made from recycled materials with the addition of ‘tracer particles,’ each bag possesses a unique fingerprint. By scanning the product, consumers can verify its sustainable origins, with each bag saving 1257.2 litres of water during manufacturing too.
Supply Chain Traceability
Supply chain traceability is a pivotal tool in the quest for genuinely eco-friendly branded merchandise. Armed with accurate information, consumers can trace products back to their source, empowering them to demand sustainability in their purchases.
With AWARE™ integrity technology embedded in the products you buy authentic, sustainable materials, textiles brands and retailers have the freedom and flexibility to produce products with their own compliant and nominated suppliers.
In essence, the AWARE range exemplifies how cutting-edge technology can bring unparalleled transparency to the sourcing and production of eco-friendly merchandise, offering consumers the confidence and assurance they seek in making environmentally conscious choices.
To learn more about supply chain ethics and how you can enhance yours, or to start your journey to greener merchandise, contact our experts today.